GATEWOOD, Charles. Folsom Street Fair.

(San Francisco): Self-published, 2012. First edition. Spiral bound quarto. Unpaginated. A unique album of photographic prints taken by Charles Gatewood at the Folsom Street Fair, San Francisco, 1997-2012. The album contains a total of 62 photographic prints 48 in colour and 14 in black and white. ‘Folsom’ is an annual BDSM and leather subculture street fair held in September, that caps San Francisco’s “Leather Pride Week”. The fair takes place on Folsom Street between 8th and 13th Streets, in San Francisco’s South of Market district and is the world’s largest leather event and showcase for BDSM products and culture. As one of the few occasions when sadomasochistic activities are encouraged and performed in public, it attracts a considerable number of sightseers and those who enjoy the attention of onlookers as well as hundreds of photographers and videographers. Although the costumes and activities are frequently transgressive, many attendees find the event “eye-opening” and positive. On the other hand, the event has at times drawn public and internal criticism for its bawdy atmosphere and broad tolerance of lewd behavior. The photographs here cover the full spectrum of the fair. A fine copy with statement label signed by Charles gatewood and numbered 1/1.